A soldier returns to the United States from active duty in a combat zone. The soldier is diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The nurse's highest priority is to screen this soldier for which problem?
Schizophrenia
Major depressive disorder
Bipolar disorder
Dementia
The Correct Answer is B
A. While both schizophrenia and PTSD are mental health disorders, the priority in this context for a soldier with a history of combat exposure is to screen for conditions that commonly arise from traumatic experiences, such as PTSD and major depressive disorder.
B. PTSD and major depressive disorder can often co-occur, especially in individuals exposed to trauma. Given the soldier's history of combat exposure and PTSD diagnosis, screening for major depressive disorder is crucial due to its frequent association with PTSD and its potential severity.
C. Bipolar disorder may share some symptoms with PTSD, but given the context of returning from combat and the diagnosis of PTSD, the priority would be to focus on screening for
conditions more directly linked to trauma.
D. Dementia is less likely to be directly related to combat exposure in a returning soldier. While it's essential to assess the soldier's overall mental health, the immediate concern in this scenario would be mental health conditions more commonly associated with trauma.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Clients with major depressive disorder often exhibit decreased response to stimuli rather than an exaggerated response.
B. Weight changes, either a significant gain or loss, are common in individuals with major depressive disorder due to changes in appetite.
C. Hyperexcitability is not typically associated with major depressive disorder. Instead, individuals with depression often exhibit decreased energy and enthusiasm.
D. While seeking attention can manifest in some individuals with mental health conditions, it's not a defining characteristic of major depressive disorder.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While assessing coping skills is essential, in a crisis situation, determining immediate risks to the client's safety takes precedence.
B. Assessing for psychotic thinking is crucial to address immediate safety concerns. Psychosis can present significant risks and requires immediate attention.
C. While support systems are important for long-term recovery, determining immediate safety concerns is a priority.
D. Identifying the cause of the crisis is relevant but may not be the immediate priority when the client's safety is at risk due to potential psychotic thinking.
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